Not every renovation starts with a historic home or a mid-century classic. For homeowners living in houses built in the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s, the challenge is often figuring out how to transform a home that was designed to appeal to everyone into one that feels distinctly their own.

In the season six premiere, Sarah Lawson and Bruce Irving sit down with Heather Sousa, Principal at Flavin Architects, to explore the opportunities and challenges of renovating this often-overlooked era of housing. They discuss the characteristics of these homes - from builder-driven designs and compartmentalized layouts to generous lots, good bones, and ceiling heights worth preserving - and what makes them strong candidates for thoughtful renovation.

The conversation also goes beyond aesthetics, addressing the infrastructure and material issues homeowners should understand before taking on a project, including siding, windows, water management, and other components that may be reaching the end of their useful life. Heather shares why understanding how a family actually lives in a home should come before simply opening walls, and how thoughtful interventions can create more connected spaces while still maintaining purposeful separation.

Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.

Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In this episode, Sarah and Bruce sit down with Larry Powers of the renowned  Powers Gallery to demystify the process of incorporating art into your home. From sourcing affordable pieces and navigating consignment shops to tips on art placement, lighting, and even hanging techniques, Larry shares practical advice and stories from his decades of experience. You'll also learn how art can transform a space, why lighting matters, and how to start an art collection on any budget.

Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.

Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome award-winning landscape designer Greg Lombardi, of Gregory Lombardi Design, who reflects on how design preferences have shifted over the past few decades - from formal, overproduced gardens to more relaxed, ecologically conscious landscapes. He shares insights on the rise of native plantings, climate resilience, and the beauty of “messy on purpose” gardens. Then, Greg shares his insight on cultural perceptions, generational change, and the evolving relationship between people and their outdoor spaces. 

Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.

Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In this episode Sarah and Bruce sit down with John Bigelow of Compass Real Estate and Bigelow/Irving to dive into the current state of the housing market and answer some of the most common questions from both buyers and sellers. From the age-old debate of whether it’s worth renovating before selling, to staging tips, first-time buyer pitfalls, and the ever-changing dynamics of bidding wars, John shares practical advice and sharp insights drawn from his years in the field including market conditions, pricing strategies, and even condo association vibes can make or break a deal. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious, this episode offers an honest and informative look at the realities of real estate today.

Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.

Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

You'll never look at paint the same way after this episode! Sarah and Bruce welcome paint aficionado Nigel Costolloe, president of Catchlight Painting, and color consultant Sue O’Connell. Together, they bring us on an inspiring journey through the art and science of painting, exploring the transformative power of color and the vital choices that shape our environments. Nigel and Sue highlight the distinction between amateurs and professionals, emphasizing how high-quality materials and techniques enhance both durability and beauty. They remind us that selecting colors is not just about pigment; it’s a reflection of psychology and the interplay of light, inviting us to create spaces that resonate with our deepest feelings.

Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.

Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In the season five premiere, Sarah and Bruce welcome construction engineering experts Harry Berlis and Tom Fennick of McPHAIL ASSOCIATES, LLC, who intrigue with their knowledge of the history of Back Bay. Before it became brownstones and boutiques, Back Bay was precisely that—a bay. In the 1800s, Boston launched a massive land-filling project that transformed water and marsh into one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. This episode dives into the bold engineering, political will, and sheer volume of dirt that built Back Bay from the ground up and how it still stands today! 

Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.

Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In the season 4 finale, Sarah and Bruce welcome Stephen Pompeo of Pompeo Insurance to discuss the ins and outs of insurance and how keeping your residence protected is one of the most important aspects of home ownership.
Steve shares information on insurance types, rates, and how climate change, new technologies, and modern conveniences have affected what you pay to keep your abode safe and sound. Here is one conversation you won't want to miss! 

For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz 

Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.

Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

Sarah and Bruce welcome Jenna Talbott, editor-in-chief of New England Home Magazine, one of the most prominent and successful shelter publications in New England. Jenna shares with us how New England Home operates and the formula used to make the whole entity so successful. Then, Jenna gives an inside look on the operations of how a magazine is pulled together and what goes into producing a print publication. 

For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit ⁠⁠⁠www.SHConstruction.com ⁠⁠⁠and ⁠⁠⁠www.BruceIrving.biz ⁠⁠⁠

Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.

Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In this episode Sarah and Bruce welcome Robert Barmore of Therma-HEXX - the leading company in modular radiant heating and cooling systems. Robert shares his expertise on the alternative energy solutions available, the many benefits these systems offer, their long-term cost-effectiveness and their minimal impact  on the environment. Learn the history of radiant heating, the introduction of radiant cooling, and the innovative process used to install these panels into your home. 

For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit ⁠⁠www.SHConstruction.com ⁠⁠and ⁠⁠www.BruceIrving.biz ⁠⁠

Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.

Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In this episode of Builder's Notebook, we get to know our hosts a little better! It's been a while since we've checked in on Sarah and Bruce, and in this unique episode, they are not only the interviewer but the interviewee. Each gets to ask their burning questions for each other, divulging their backgrounds, how they got to where they are today, and sharing some fun facts. Hope you enjoy getting to know them a little better!

For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit ⁠www.SHConstruction.com ⁠and ⁠www.BruceIrving.biz ⁠

Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.

Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters